The Definition of Heroism
Bravery and fear can be said to be two sides of the same coin. Without fear, bravery cannot be, for it is the resistance of fear that makes it so, and yet if fear dominates, there can be no bravery. In Euripides's Greek tragedy Iphigenia in Aulis, heroism is shown to be a willingness to sacrifice oneself for the good and glory of others or one's country, as conveyed through Iphigenia's desire to die for Greece. This is counter to the pusillanimous actions of men like Menelaus, who is willing to manipulate others in order to get his beautiful bride back. Heroism is greatly valued in Iphigenia in Aulis, due to its aspects of altruism and purity. Clytemnestra first demonstrates her own form of bravery by giving up all pride and begging Achilles to protect her child from cruel and untimely death, “dar[ing] all things for her children’s sake” (1.648). Later, when attempting to convince Menelaus that Iphigenia had no need to die, she goes as far as to threaten him: “We who are left, we will not want much urging / [t]o greet you with the welcome you deserve!” (1.845-846). Clytemnestra is willing to kill her own husband if he murders their child, risking the wrath of the gods. Achilles also displays actions of heroism, as he offers to kill for Iphigenia so that he…show more content… When it is revealed that only through the death of his niece may he take back his wife, he wastes no time in convincing his brother to send for her. When arguing, Agamemnon accuses Menelaus of desiring “that fair woman…[c]areless of honor or virtue” (1.211-212). Menelaus then attempts multiple tactics to convince Agamemnon to sacrifice Iphigenia, first asking for pity, then threatening his brother’s power. Only once the death of Iphigenia is assured does he feign regret: “Why should you mourn and I have joy thereby?” (1.281). Menelaus manipulates others for his own ends, the antithesis of